My Confidence

In God we make our boast all day long, and we will praise your name forever. Psalm 44:8

He who loves a pure heart and whose speech is gracious will havethe king for his friend. Proverbs 22:11

But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 2 Corinthians 4:7

These three verses spoke to my heart today. I confess to the sin of pride. I often find I boast in myself rather than God. I seek to praise my name rather than his. I want others to see the depth of my wisdom and my knowledge. I want for them to compliment my creativity and my athleticism.

I thrive on receiving compliment and being puffed up. Whether it is, "Pastor that was a great sermon today." Or "That was a great catch you made." I confess I like to be the center of attention and to be admired.

This in turn leads to speech that is less than gracious, but is self-seeking. My speech is directed towards my accomplishments seeking the admiration and affirmation of others.

But bragging about this jar of clay is not what God has called me to, nor is it worthwhile. It is about the treasure, Jesus that is within me. Jesus was filled with grace and mercy. He sought to share his grace and mercy with others.

These verses are an encouragement to me to be gracious in my speech. To be encouraging of others. To admire and to affirm them with the love of Jesus.